‘Whooping cough’ outbreak has got everyone on their toes. Here are a few home remedies to naturally alleviate the symptoms.
During this time around, as we welcome Summer, the transitions sit heavy on the health. Seasonal allergies, viral infection etc witness an uptick. Cough, cold, sore throat, viral fever etc are common health issues that people contract easily, especially when in public spaces. Recently, it has been reported that this cough has seen an exponential rise in China and is being termed as ‘Whooping cough outbreak’. Reportedly, the cases are surging nearly 20-fold in the beginning of 2024.
Scientifically speaking, the’ whooping cough’ is known as pertussis. As per the Bloomberg report, 13 deaths have been reported in the first 60 days of the year.
What is Whooping Cough or Pertussis?
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory issues that is caused due to bacteria called Bordetella. The viral infection can spread via droplets.
Symptoms of this severe cough usually start to appear after 7-10 post-infection.
- Mild fever
- Prolonged coughing
- Runny nose
- Cold
WHO states, “People with pertussis are most contagious up to about 3 weeks after the cough begins, and many children who contract the infection have coughing spells that last 4 to 8 weeks. Antibiotics are used to treat the infection.”
When any of these or few of these signs and symptoms show for a long time. It is best to get checked by a doctor. However, it is sometimes important to nip the issues in the bud. Therefore, in case of ongoing cough or dry cough, one may try these home remedies to treat and alleviate the inflammation as early as possible.
5 Home Remedies For Coughing
- Honey and Lemon Mix: Take lukewarm water and mix a spoonful of honey and then squeeze a lemon too. It will help to soothe the dry throat and reduce inflammation. Lemon with its citric effect may help to break the mucus forming.
- Salt-water gargle: Eating healthy foods can help to boost your immune system and fight off infection. Choose foods that are high in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Ginger: Ginger is another herbal ingredient that is highly valued in ayurvedic medicines for cough and cold as it helps not just with phlegm reduction, but also with fighting infections and reducing inflammation. These anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects are linked to gingerols, the active components in ginger. Ginger can be used to prepare herbal teas along with honey or you can even drink the freshly extracted juice or chew on some ginger.
- Turmeric Milk: Turmeric or haldi is one of the most effective spice that has been in use for its medicinal purposes. Haldi has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and healing properties. Therefore, turmeric milk helps to decongest the throat, chest. Turmeric can enhance the immune system and stimulate antibody responses against infections.
- Healthy Diet: Include a nutrient-rich diet. Ensure to have immunity-boosting foods, and vitamin C rich foods and maintain health guards.